Notes: Marte to IL; M. Kelly has surgery
D-backs infielder/outfielder Ketel Marte was scratched from Wednesday’s lineup and placed on the 10-day injured list with left wrist inflammation.
The D-backs also optioned left-hander Joe Mantiply to their alternate training site and recalled right-hander Joel Payamps and infielder Josh VanMeter.
Marte did not recall exactly what caused the injury, but said it might have been a swing or being jammed by a pitch.
“It started bothering me about three or four days ago,” Marte said. “Started bothering me a little bit, and then as of [Tuesday], it started bothering me a little more.”
Marte had an MRI done and was seen by team hand specialist Don Sheridan.
“The imaging showed there was some inflammation in there,” D-backs manager Torey Lovullo said. “We have to get him off his feet and get him healthy and see if we can get him back on the field before the season is over.”
Both Lovullo and Marte expressed optimism that he would return before the end of the season. The D-backs have 16 games left after Wednesday night.
Marte missed the final few weeks of the 2019 season due to a stress reaction in his back, but said he has not experienced any issues with it since.
VanMeter was acquired from the Reds as part of the trade that sent closer Archie Bradley to Cincinnati. He had been working out at the alternate training site since the deal.
With Marte on the IL, Daulton Varsho and Tim Locastro figure to see the bulk of the playing time in center field, while Josh Rojas and VanMeter will get looks at second base.
“I feel like we have plenty of coverage,” Lovullo said. “It gives us a chance to evaluate some guys and see some younger players play. I’m always excited about that.”
Kelly has surgery
Right-hander Merrill Kelly underwent surgery Tuesday to treat thoracic outlet syndrome, which involves the removal of a rib with the goal to relieve the pressure on the nerves in the shoulder.
Kelly had been on the injured list after having a blood clot dissolved in his shoulder. He was scratched an hour before his Aug. 24 start after his symptoms worsened.
Dr. Gregory Pearl in Dallas performed the surgery on Kelly.
“The procedure went perfect,” Lovullo said. “I had a chance to speak with Merrill and he’s resting comfortably. We’re expecting him here the next several days.”
If all goes well with his recovery, Kelly should be ready for the 2021 season. The D-backs hold a $4.25 million club option for next year. They would owe Kelly a $500,000 buyout if they choose not to exercise it.